Financial transaction card with visual effect

ABSTRACT

A financial transaction card includes a substrate and a visual distortion member. The substrate defines an aperture and includes an account identifier. The account identifier links the financial transaction card to at least one of a financial account and a financial record. The visual distortion member is positioned at least partially within the aperture and coupled with the substrate, and the visual distortion member is configured to distort images viewed therethrough. Methods of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of a stored-value card, and other financial transaction card embodiments are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Stored-value cards and other financial transactions cards come in manyforms. A gift card, for example, is a type of stored-value card thatincludes pre-loaded or selectively loaded monetary value. In oneexample, a consumer buys a gift card having a specified value forpresentation as a gift to another person. In another example, a consumeris offered a gift card as an incentive to make a purchase. A gift card,like other stored-value cards, can be “recharged” or “reloaded” at thedirection of the bearer. The balance associated with the gift carddeclines as the gift card is used, encouraging repeat visits to theretailer or other provider issuing the gift card. Additionally, the giftcard generally remains in the user's purse or wallet, serving as anadvertisement or reminder to revisit the associated retailer. Gift cardsand other stored-value cards provide a number of advantages to both theconsumer and the retailer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to a financial transactioncard including a substrate and a visual distortion member. The substratedefines an aperture and includes an account identifier. The accountidentifier links the financial transaction card to at least one of afinancial account and a financial record. The visual distortion memberis positioned at least partially within the aperture and coupled withthe substrate. The visual distortion member is configured to distortimages viewed therethrough. Method of encouraging purchase andfacilitating use if a stored-value card, and other stored-value orfinancial transaction card embodiments are also disclosed. Other relatedproducts and methods are also disclosed and provide additionaladvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to thefigures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view illustration of a stored-valuecard, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustration of a stored-value card,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a front view illustration of the stored-value card of FIG. 2,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a rear view illustration of the stored-value card of FIG. 2,according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a left side view illustration of the stored-value card of FIG.2, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the right sideview being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 6 is a top view illustration of the stored-value card of FIG. 2,according to one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom viewillustration being a mirror image thereof.

FIG. 7 is a front view illustration of an unfolded backer for astored-value card, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a rear view illustration a stored-value card assemblyincluding the unfolded backer of FIG. 7 with the stored-value card ofFIG. 2, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a method of assembling astored-value card assembly, according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of encouraging purchaseand facilitating use of a stored-value card assembly, according to oneembodiment the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a stored-valuecard assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A stored-value card or other financial transaction card is adapted formaking purchases of goods and/or services at, for example, a retailstore or website. According to one embodiment, an original consumer buysa stored-value card to give a recipient who in turn is able to use thestored-value card at a retail store or setting to pay for goods and/orservices. A stored-value card, according to embodiments of the presentinvention, provides the consumer and recipient with extra amusement inaddition to the ability to pay for goods and/or services with thestored-value card.

In particular, the stored-value card includes at least one translucentor transparent visual distortion member included therein. The visualdistortion member(s) are positioned such that a card bearer can lookthrough the visual distortion member(s) and, as a result, will have hervision distorted such that the appearance of the subject being viewed isaltered to the viewer through the visual distortion member(s). In oneembodiment, the visual distortion member(s) are configured to distortthe bearer's vision with multiple lens surfaces. In one example, suchdistortion is reminiscent of the vision of an insect having a compoundeye, e.g., a fly, and a fly or other insect character is illustrated onthe stored-value card such that the vision distortion member(s) arepositioned to appear as one or more eyes of the depicted fly character.In one embodiment, this amusing aspect of the stored-value card promotesthe sale, use, and/or loading of the stored-value card by potentialconsumers and/or bearers of the stored-value card.

Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-6 illustrate various views of oneembodiment of a stored-value card 10, which includes a substrate 12 anda visual distortion member 14. In general, visual distortion member 14is positioned adjacent substrate 12 such that a card bearer can viewsubjects through visual distortion member 14. In one embodiment, visualdistortion member 14 is at least partially embedded within or surroundedby substrate 12. For example, substrate 12 extends at least partiallyaround and is coupled with visual distortion member 14 about a boundary16 (FIG. 4) therebetween.

Substrate 12 defines a first surface 20, a second surface 22 oppositefirst surface 20, and at least one opening or aperture 24 (FIG. 1)extending therethrough. In one embodiment, at least one of first andsecond surfaces 20 and 22 is substantially planar. Each aperture 24 issized and shaped to at least partially receive visual distortion member14. More particularly, each aperture 24 defines an edge 26 sized andshaped to abut a least a portion of an outer perimeter edge 28 of visualdistortion member 14 as will be further described below. In otherembodiments, edge 26 and perimeter edge 28 may be overlapped orotherwise positioned relative to one another.

In one embodiment, substrate 12 is generally rectangular in shape and isof a size similar to that of an identification card, a credit card, orother card sized to fit in a wallet of a card bearer (i.e. walletsized). In particular, in one embodiment, substrate 12 is about 8.5 cmlong, about 5.5 cm wide, and less than about 1 mm thick. In otherembodiments, substrate 12 is otherwise shaped as a square, circle, oval,star, or any other suitable shape.

Substrate 12 is formed of a somewhat rigid yet flexible material similarto that commonly used for identification cards, credit cards, etc. Morespecifically, in one embodiment, substrate 12 is formed of paper,cardstock, plastic, e.g. polycarbonate, polystyrene, or polyvinylchloride (PVC), or other suitable material. In one embodiment, substrate12 is formed of injected molded plastic or cut from sheet-stock plasticmaterial. Substrate 12 can be formed in any other suitable planar ornon-planar configuration as will be apparent to those of skill in theart upon reading this application.

In one embodiment, substrate 12, for example, first surface 20 ofsubstrate 12, includes a graphical depiction of an object 30. Object 30may be an inanimate article, a character such as an animal, toy, person,fictional being (for example, a cartoon character or other fictionalcharacter), or other suitable object. As such, substrate 12 with object30 depicted thereon is one example of means for depicting a subject orcharacter. In one example, object 30 is a character, more specifically adepiction of a fly, and the at least one aperture 24 extends through oris positioned adjacent a portion 32 (FIG. 1) of object 30 relating to aneye of depicted object 30. In one example, the at least one aperture 24is two apertures, each aperture being positioned to correspond with anexpected position of a different eye of object 30. In one example, eachaperture 24 defines a diameter of at least 1.5 cm.

Referring to the rear view illustration of FIG. 4, substrate 12 or otherportion of stored-value card 10 includes an account identifier 40, suchas a barcode, a magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device,a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, or other suitableidentifier readily readable by a point-of-sale terminal, account accessstation, kiosk, or other suitable device. More particularly, in oneembodiment, account identifier 40 is printed on or otherwise applied tosecond surface 22 of substrate 12. Account identifier 40 indicates afinancial account or record to which stored-value card 10 is linked. Thefinancial account or record of the monetary balance on stored-value card10 optionally is maintained on a database, other electronic or manualrecord-keeping system, or, in the case of “smart” cards for example, ona chip or other electronic device on/in stored-value card 10 itself.Accordingly, by scanning account identifier 40, a financial account orrecord linked to stored-value card 10 is identified and can subsequentlybe activated, have amounts debited therefrom, and/or have amountscredited thereto. Account identifier 40 is one example of means forlinking stored-value card 10 with a financial account or a financialrecord.

In one embodiment, redemption indicia 42 are included on stored-valuecard 10 such as on second surface 22 of substrate 12. Redemption indicia42 indicate that stored-value card 10 is redeemable for the purchase ofgoods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of the purchased goodsand/or services will be deducted from the financial account or recordlinked to stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, redemption indicia 42include phrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard isredeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at ourwebsite,” and/or provides help or phone line information in the case ofa lost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card, etc. In one embodiment,other indicia 44 are also included on first or second surfaces 20 and 22including other objects, texts, backgrounds, graphics, brand or storeidentifiers, etc.

In one embodiment, stored-value card 10 includes brand indicia 44disposed on stored-value card 10 as one example of means for associatingstored-value card 10 with at least one of a product, a brand, a store, aholiday, a season, an occasion, a media format, e.g. characters, logos,scenes, or other illustrations or photographs related to at least one ofa movie, television show, book, video game, etc. Other indicia oradditionally features may also be included on stored-value card 10 aswill be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading thisapplication. In addition, in one example, any one or more of indicia 42and 44 may not be included on substrate 12 or stored-value card 10 as awhole.

Each visual distortion member 14 is any suitable translucent ortransparent member configured to distort the vision of any individuallooking through visual distortion member 14. In one embodiment, eachvisual distortion member 14 is any lens configured to bend or any othermeans for bending light to distort or otherwise alter the appearance ofany given subject viewed through a visual distortion member(s) 14.Visual distortion member(s) 14 each define a front side 50 and a rearside 52 (FIG. 4) opposite front side 50.

In one embodiment, front side 50 of each visual distortion member 14 isformed similar to a geodesic dome (e.g., a domed or vaulted structure ofsubstantially planar, interlocking polygonal elements) and, as such,defines a plurality of polygonal surfaces 54. In one embodiment, theplurality of surfaces 54 may be each at least partially one oftriangular, hexagonal, pentagonal, quadrangular, or other suitable shapefor collectively forming a dome-like structure in a multi-facetedmanner. In one example, more than ten surfaces 54 (or otherwise stated,more than ten facets) are included on front side 50 of each visualdistortion member 14. In one embodiment, rear side 52 generally definesa curved and relatively smooth rear surface 56 (generally indicated inFIG. 4). In one example, visual distortion member 14 is substantiallysolid between front and rear sides 50 and 52.

In this manner, a card bearer looking through visual distortion member14 from rear side 52 looks through smooth rear surface 56 and at least aportion of the plurality of surfaces 54. In this manner, the viewer,e.g. the card bearer, viewing a single subject (or portion thereof)through visual distortion member 14 is presented with a plurality ofsubject images rather the one subject-to-one image ratio of normal humanvision. As such, the plurality of surfaces 54 causes visual distortionmember 14 to present the viewer with an image to mimic that which wouldbe seen with a compound eye such as that of a fly or other insect.Notably, visual distortion member 14 may define or mimic a compound eyehaving any multiple number of surfaces 54, which create any number ofimage replications.

As described above, each visual distortion member 14 defines outerperimeter edge 28. In one example, perimeter edge 28 extends between andaround an outer portion of the collective plurality of surfaces 54 andsmooth rear surface 56. In one embodiment, perimeter edge 28 extendsfrom the plurality of surfaces 54 beyond smooth rear surface 56 so as todefine a flange 60 (FIG. 4), as will be further described below,extending around the remainder of visual distortion member 14 toincrease the overall thickness of perimeter edge 28. Visual distortionmember 14 may be formed of any suitable material such as a plastic,acrylic, or other material.

During assembly, each visual distortion member 14 is positioned suchthat perimeter edge 28 at least partially abuts an edge 26 of acorresponding aperture 24 defined by substrate 12. In one embodiment,each aperture 24 and each perimeter edge 28 are each generally circularsuch that visual distortion member 14 is positioned within aperture 24such that substrate 12 generally surrounds each visual distortion member14 to form boundary 16 there between as a closed boundary. Perimeteredge 28 is coupled with edge 26 in any suitable manner. In one example,perimeter edge 28 is ultrasonically welded to edge 26. In oneembodiment, each of perimeter edge 28 and edge 26 are generally smoothand are characterized by the absence of notches, grooves, or othersimilar features. In one instance, upon assembly, dome-like front side50 extends forward beyond first surface 20 of substrate 12 as generallyillustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6.

With the above assembly in mind, in one embodiment, where each aperture24 is positioned to correspond with a particular portion of object 30,such as the eyes of a fly object 30, visual distortion member 14 ispositioned to appear as the particular portion, e.g., as the eyes, ofobject 30 as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon readingthis application. In addition, upon reading this application, otherdepictions of objects 30 and locations and numbers of apertures 24 andcorresponding objects 30 will be apparent to those of skill in the art.For example, the depicted object 30 may be a character including glassesand the aperture(s) 24 may be positioned to correspond with the lens(es)of the glasses, etc. In one embodiment, object 30 is inanimate, e.g., alooking glass and/or similar member, depicted such that aperture(s) 24are positioned where a lens, window, etc. would be expected to bepositioned.

In one embodiment, in order to further strengthen the connection ofvisual distortion member 14 with substrate 12, ring or rim 70 may beprovided for each visual distortion member 14 provided. In oneembodiment, each rim 70 is formed of a plastic, acrylic, or othersuitable material. Rim 70 defines an inside surface 72, e.g., an insidesurface, that is sized similar to edge 26 of opening and is configuredto abut at least a portion of flange 60, more specifically, perimeteredge 28 of visual distortion member 14. In one embodiment, rim 70radially extends with a width such that an outside diameter is definedthat is larger than an inside dimension defined by inside surface 72. Inthis manner, rim 70 also defines a rear, generally planar surface 74that extends between the inside and outside diameters of rim 70. In oneembodiment, rear surface 74 extends substantially perpendicularly toinside surface 72.

In one example, during assembly, rim 70 is coupled with both substrate12 and visual distortion member 14 in any suitable manner such as withultrasonic welding, adhesive, etc. In particular, edge 72 of rim 70 iscoupled with perimeter edge 28 of visual distortion member 14, and rearsurface 74 is aligned and coupled with first surface 20 of substrate 12.The inclusion of rim 70 thereby increases the strength of the couplingbetween visual distortion member 14 and substrate 12. In one embodiment,a height/thickness of edge 26 added to a height/thickness of surface 72is collectively similar to a height/thickness of perimeter edge 28defined at least partially by flange 60 of visual distortion member 14.In one embodiment, upon assembly, dome-like front side 50 extendsfurther forward (i.e. outward from first surface 20) than rim 70 asgenerally illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a carrier or backer 100 for supportingstored-value card 10. Stored-value card 10, which is represented inphantom lines in FIG. 7 for illustrative purposes so as to not obstructbacker 100, is readily releasably attached to backer 100, for example bya removable adhesive 102 or the like. Backer 100 and stored-value card10 collectively define a stored-value card assembly 200 (FIG. 8). Backer100 comprises a single layer or multiple layers of paper or plasticmaterial, for example, generally in the form of a relatively stiff butbendable/flexible card. Use of other materials is also contemplated.Backer 100 displays indicia, graphics or text information includingstore logo(s), store name(s), slogans, advertising, instructions,directions, brand indicia, promotional information, holiday indicia,seasonal indicia, media format identifiers, characters, and/or otherinformation.

For example, indicia 104 include to, from, amount, and message fields.The fields of indicia 104 provide areas of backer 100 configured to bewritten upon by a consumer to personalize backer 100 for presentation asa gift to a particular recipient, for a particular purpose, and/or toindicate a value of stored-value card 10.

In one example, indicia 106 promote that stored-value card 10 includesvisual distortion member(s) 14. In one instance, indicia 106 state “Inamazing FLY-O-VISION!” In one example, indicia 106 additionally instructthe bearer of store-value card 10 on how to use stored-value card 10 foramusement.

Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, indicia 110 indicate thatstored-value card 10 is redeemable for the purchase of goods and/orservices and that upon use, a value of the purchased goods and/orservices will be deducted from the financial account or record linked tostored-value card 10. In one embodiment, indicia 110 include phrasessuch as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable formerchandise or services at any of our stores or at our website,” and/orprovides help or phone line information in case of a lost, stolen, ordamaged stored-value card 10, etc.

Brand indicia 112 may also or alternatively be included to identify astore, brand, department, etc. and/or services associated withstored-value card 10. Any of indicia 42 (e.g., FIG. 4), 44 (e.g., FIG.2), 104, 106, 110, 112, or other indicia optionally may appear anywhereon backer 100 or stored-value card 10. Additional information besidesthat specifically described and illustrated herein may also be includedand/or one or more of indicia 42, 44, 104, 106, 110, and 112 may beeliminated.

Backer 100 includes a window or opening 114 for displaying accountidentifier 40 of stored-value card 10 therethrough as illustrated inFIG. 8. As previously described, account identifier 40 is adapted foraccessing a financial account or a financial record associated withstored-value card 10 for activating, loading, or debiting from thefinancial account or financial record. Accordingly, opening 114 allowsviewing or other access to account identifier 40 to activate and/or loadstored-value card 10 without removing stored-value card 10 from backer100. In one embodiment, a portion of backer 100 alternatively isconfigured to be folded away from the remainder of backer 100 to accessaccount identifier 40 without removing stored-value card 10 from backer100.

In one example, opening 114 is positioned and sized such that visualdistortion member(s) 14 are viewable through opening 114. In thismanner, even when stored-value card 10 is coupled with backer 100, thebearer of stored-value card 10 can look through opening 114 and throughvisual distortion member(s) 14. In one embodiment, so positioningstored-value card 10 on backer during display of stored-vale card 10 isconfigured to further promote purchase of stored-value card 10.

In one embodiment, backer 100 is a bi-fold substrate defining a foldline 116, 5 about which backer 100 is foldable roughly in half. In FIGS.7 and 8, backer 100 is unfolded, i.e. is in an open configuration.According to one embodiment, FIG. 7 illustrates inside surfaces 120 ofbacker 100 that will be supported on a rack or other fixture to bevisible to a consumer of a retail store who is considering the purchaseof stored-value card 10. In another example, while on display in aretail store, backer 100 is folded back about fold line 116 to presentonly portions of inside surfaces 120 of backer 100, i.e., surfacesillustrated in FIG. 7, that are positioned on the same side of fold line116 as stored-value card 10 to a consumer. In such an embodiment,indicia 104 would not be visible to a consumer when backer 100 andstored-value card 10 are placed for display in a retail store. Backer100 is one example of means for supporting stored-value card 10 fordisplay in a retail setting.

After purchase, backer 100 is foldable about fold line 116 such that theFIG. 7 inside surfaces 120 of backer 100 are folded toward each otherand stored-value card 10 is enclosed or wrapped in a compact packageformed by foldable backer 100. In this manner, outer surfaces 122 ofbacker 100, i.e., the surfaces illustrated in FIG. 7, are disposedtoward the outside of the folded, compact package, according toembodiments of the invention. In one embodiment, folded backer 100effectively wraps stored-value card 10 for presentation from a consumerto a recipient. Folding backer 100 in the other direction about foldline 116 for display on a rack in a retail setting, or about other foldlines of backer 100 is also contemplated. In one embodiment, althoughdescribed above and depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 as a single fold line 116,fold line 116 may be one of a plurality of fold lines (not shown) so asto accommodate various thickness of or to otherwise wrap stored-valuecard 10 as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon readingthis application.

In one embodiment, a cut 130 is formed through backer 100 near an edgeof backer 100 spaced from and substantially parallel to fold line 116.Cut 130 extends partially toward fold line 116 and defines a flap 132,which can be partially bent away from the remainder of backer 100. Morespecifically, upon folding of backer 100 about fold line 116 to closebacker 100 around stored-value card 10, an opposing edge of backer 100is tucked beneath flap 132 to maintain backer 100 in a folded or closedposition. In one embodiment, cut 130 and thereby flap 132 are eachsubstantially semi-circular in shape. Other backers similar to backer100 can be used having various sizes and shapes for supportingstored-value card 10.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 400 ofassembling stored-value card assembly 200 (FIG. 8) and is described withparticular reference to stored-value card 10 of FIG. 1 and backer 100 ofFIGS. 7 and 8. At 402, stored-value card 10 is assembled and, at 404,stored-value card 10 is coupled with backer 100 to form stored-valuecard assembly 200. In one embodiment, assembly at 402, includes twooperations 404 and 408. In particular, at 404, visual distortionmember(s) 14, in particular, perimeter edge(s) 28 thereof, are eachaligned with and positioned relative to substrate 12, in particular,with edge 26 of a respective aperture 24. More specifically, eachperimeter edge 28 is positioned to abut inside edge 26 of acorresponding aperture 24.

Subsequently, at 408, perimeter edge 28 of each visual distortion member14 is coupled, for example, is ultrasonically welded, to inside edge 26of the corresponding aperture 24. In one example, operation 408 includesadditionally providing rim(s) 70. For instance, each rim 70 is placedaround a corresponding visual distortion member 14 such that insidesurface 72 abuts perimeter edge 28 thereof and rear surface 72 abutssubstrate 12. Accordingly, rim(s) 70 are ultrasonically welded orotherwise coupled to each of substrate 12 and a corresponding visualdistortion member 14. Although described above as being added as part ofoperation 408, in one embodiment, each rim 70 is coupled with acorresponding visual distortion member 14 prior to either operation 406or 408. For example, each rim 70 may be coupled with a correspondingvisual distortion member 14, such that each rim 70 facilities subsequentalignment and positioning of the corresponding visual distortion member14 with the respective aperture 24 of substrate 12 or vice versa. In oneembodiment, rim(s) 70 are eliminated.

At 404, the assembled stored-value card 10 is coupled with backer 100(FIGS. 7 and 8) to form stored-value card assembly 200. In one example,stored-value card 10 is coupled to backer 100 with adhesive 102 (FIG. 7)or other selectively releasable material or device. Once stored-valuecard 10 is coupled to backer 100, account identifier 40 and, in oneembodiment, visual distortion member(s) 14 are viewable through window114 of backer 100. In one embodiment, backer 100 is folded into a foldedposition for shipment and/or display to retail settings. Backer 100 is,more specifically, folded by folding backer 100 about fold line 116 suchthat outer surfaces 122 illustrated in FIG. 8 are moved toward eachother. As such, a portion of backer 100 with stored-value card 10 isvisible from one side of folded backer 100. Backer 100 can also befolded in the opposite direction about fold line 116 to substantiallyenclose stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, backer 100 is displayedin position in which outer surfaces 122 are folded toward one another.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 420 ofencouraging purchase and facilitating use of stored-value card 10 byconsumers. At 422, stored-value card 10 is placed or hung from a rack,shelf, or other similar device to display stored-value card 10 for saleto potential consumers. In one example, stored-value card 10 is placedfor retail sale when assembled to backer 100 as part of stored-valuecard assembly 200. In one embodiment, a depiction of stored-value card10 is placed on a website for viewing and purchase by potentialconsumers. In one example, backer 100 is configured to displaystored-value card 10 such that one can look through visual distortionmember(s) 14 of stored-value card 10 through or around portions ofbacker 100. In this manner, backer 100 does not impede one from lookingthrough visual distortion member(s) 14, which in turn serves to promotethe amusing aspect of stored-value card 10, which thereby, promotespurchase of stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, stored-value card10 is displayed without backer 100.

At 424, a consumer who has decided to purchase stored-value card 10presents the stored-value card 10 on backer 100 to a retail storeemployee, retail store kiosk, remote terminal, or other person or deviceto scan account identifier 40 to access a financial account or financialrecord linked to account identifier 40. In particular, accountidentifier 40 is scanned or otherwise accessed, for example throughwindow 114 of backer 100 to activate stored-value card 10. Uponaccessing the financial account or financial record, then, at 426, valueis added to the financial account or financial record. Thus,stored-value card 10 is activated and loaded. Once stored-value card 10is activated and loaded, stored-value card 10 can be used by theconsumer or any other bearer of stored-value card 10 to purchase goodsand/or services at the retail store or other affiliated retail settingor website. In one embodiment, where stored-value card 10 is displayedon a website at 422, then, at 424, stored-value card 10 may be activatedin any suitable method and may not require the physical scanning ofaccount identifier 40 to be activated or to otherwise access theassociated financial account or record such as at 426.

At 428, the retail store or other affiliated retail setting or websiteaccepts stored-value card 10 as payment towards the purchase of goodsand/or services made by the current bearer of stored-value card 10. Inparticular, the value currently loaded on stored-value card 10 (i.e.stored or recorded in the financial record or account linked to accountidentifier 40) is applied towards the purchase of goods and/or services.At 430, additional value is optionally loaded on stored-value card 10 ata point of sale terminal, kiosk, or other area of the retail store orrelated setting. Upon accepting stored-value card 10 as payment at 428,the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform eitheroperation 428 or operation 430 as requested by a current bearer ofstored-value card 10. Similarly, upon loading additional value onstored-value card 10 at 430, the retail store or related setting cansubsequently perform either operation 430 again or operation 428. In oneexample, the ability to accept stored-value card 10 as payments forgoods and/or services is limited by whether the financial account orfinancial record associated with stored-value card 10 has any valuestored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 450 ofusing stored-value card 10 (FIG. 1). At 452, a potential consumer ofstored-value card 10, which is displayed in a retail store or viewed ona website, decides to and does purchase stored-value card 10 from theretail store or website. Stored-value card 10 can be displayed andpurchased alone or as part of stored-value card assembly 200 (FIG. 8)along with backer 100. Upon purchasing a stored-value card 10, a retailstore employee, a retail store kiosk, or other person or device scansaccount identifier 40 (FIG. 4) through window 114 of backer 100 orotherwise reads or accesses account identifier 40. Upon accessingaccount identifier 40, the financial account or record linked to accountidentifier 40 is accessed and activated to load value onto stored-valuecard 10. In one embodiment, such as where stored-value card 10 ispurchased at 452 via a website, actual scanning of account identifier 40may be eliminated.

At 454, the consumer optionally gives stored-value card 10 to arecipient, such as a graduate, relative, friend, expectant parents, onehaving a recent or impending birthday, a couple having a recent orimpending anniversary, etc. In one embodiment, a plurality ofstored-value cards 10 are purchased and given to party goers, such as ata birthday party, etc. as party favors or gifts. As an alternative, theconsumer can keep stored-value card 10 for his or her own use therebyeliminating operation 454.

At 456, the consumer or recipient, whoever is in current ownership orotherwise is the current bearer of stored-value card 10, removesstored-value card 10 from backer 100 if stored-value card 10 is coupledwith backer 100. The current bearer of stored-value card 10 can playwith stored-value card 10 by looking through visual distortion member(s)14 so as to present the bearer with a distorted view of objects viewedthrough visual distortion member(s) 14. As such, the card bearer isamused by stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, where visualdistortion member(s) 14 can be viewed through backer 100, stored-valuecard 10 may be played with at 456 without removing stored-value card 10from backer 100.

At 458, the current bearer of stored-value card 10 redeems stored-valuecard 10 for goods and/or services from the retail store or website. At460, the current bearer of stored-value card 10 optionally adds value tostored-value card 10, and more particularly, to the financial account orfinancial record associated with stored-value card 10, at the retailstore or over the Internet (i.e. via the website). Upon playing withstored-value card 10 at 456, redeeming stored-value card 10 at 458, oradding value to stored-value card 10 at 460, the current bearer ofstored-value card 10 subsequently can perform any of operations 456,458, or 460 as desired. In one embodiment, the ability of the currentbearer to repeat redeeming stored-value card 10 at 458 is limited bywhether the financial account or financial record associated withstored-value card 10 has any remaining value stored or recorded thereinat the time of attempted redemption.

Although described above as occurring at a single retail store orwebsite, in one embodiment, purchasing stored-value card 10 at 452,redeeming stored-value card 10 at 458, and adding value to stored-valuecard 10 at 460, can each be performed at any one of a number of storesadapted to accept stored-value card 10 or over the Internet. In oneexample, a number of stores are each part of a chain or similarlybranded stores. In one example, a number of stores include at least onewebsite and/or at least one conventional brick and mortar store.

Stored-value cards come in many forms, according to embodiments of theinvention. The gift card, like other stored-value cards, can be“re-charged” or “re-loaded” at the direction of the original consumer,the gift recipient, or third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on”herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of afinancial account or financial record associated with a stored-valuecard. The balance associated with the stored-value card declines as thecard is used, encouraging repeat visits. The card remains in the user'spurse or wallet, serving as an advertisement or a reminder to revisitthe associated merchant. Gift cards according to embodiments of theinvention provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and themerchant. Other gift cards and stored-value cards according toembodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise returncards, electronic gift certificates, employee cards, frequency cards,prepaid cards, and other types of cards associated with or representingpurchasing power or monetary value, for example.

Although the invention has been described with respect to particularembodiments, such embodiments are meant for illustrative purposes onlyand should not be considered to limit the invention. Variousalternatives and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art. For example, other stored-value card structures includingmovable graphic portions may be used. Other modifications within thescope of the invention and its various embodiments will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill.

1. A financial transaction card comprising: a substrate defining anaperture and including an account identifier, the account identifierlinking the financial transaction card to at least one of a financialaccount and a financial record; and a visual distortion memberpositioned at least partially within the aperture and coupled with thesubstrate, the visual distortion member being configured to distortimages viewed therethrough.
 2. The financial transaction card of claim1, wherein a front side of the visual distortion member includes aplurality of substantially planar surfaces arranged to collectivelydefine a shape that is similar to a geodesic dome.
 3. The financialtransaction card of claim 2, wherein the plurality of substantiallyplanar surfaces are each substantially triangular.
 4. The financialtransaction card of claim 2, wherein the plurality of substantiallyplanar surfaces includes at least 10 surfaces.
 5. The financialtransaction card of claim 1, wherein the visual distortion member isconfigured to distort images viewed therethrough by presenting multipleviews of a portion of a subject to mimic an effect of a compound eye. 6.The financial transaction card of claim 1, wherein a graphical depictionof an object is included on a first surface of the substrate, and theaccount identifier is included on a second, opposite surface of thesubstrate.
 7. The financial transaction card of claim 6, wherein theobject is a character, and the visual distortion member is positionedrelative to the character so as to appear as an eye of the character. 8.The financial transaction card of claim 7, wherein the character is afly.
 9. The financial transaction card of claim 1, wherein the apertureis one of two apertures, and the visual distortion member is one of twovisual distortion members, each aperture having a corresponding one ofthe two visual distortion members.
 10. The financial transaction card ofclaim 9, wherein each of the two apertures is positioned relative to thesubstrate to appear as a portion of an object depicted on the substrate.11. The financial transaction card of claim 1, further comprising a rimextending around the visual distortion member and coupled with thesubstrate and the visual distortion member.
 12. The financialtransaction card of claim 1, in combination with a backer configured towrap the financial transaction card and defining a window, wherein thefinancial transaction card is coupled to the backer such that theaccount identifier is viewable through the window.
 13. The combinationof claim 12, wherein the window is sized and shaped such that the visualdistortion member is viewable through the window.
 14. A stored-valuecard comprising: means for defining an overall shape of the stored-valuecard; multifaceted means for viewing objects therethrough, themultifaceted means being embedded within the means for defining theoverall shape of the stored-value card; and means for linking thestored-value card to a financial account or record.
 15. The stored-valuecard of claim 14, wherein the means for defining the overall shape ofthe stored-value card includes a depiction of a character, and whereinthe multifaceted means is positioned relative to the character so as toappear as one or more eyes of the character.
 16. The stored-value cardof claim 15, wherein the means for linking is included on the means fordefining the overall shape of the stored-value card opposite thedepiction of the character.
 17. The stored-value card of claim 14,further comprising means for coupling the multifaceted means to themeans for defining the overall shape of the stored-value card, the meansfor coupling being formed separately from the multifaceted means and themeans for defining the overall shape of the stored-value card.
 18. Thestored-value card of claim 14, in combination with means for supportingthe stored-value card for display in a retail setting, wherein the meansfor supporting includes means for permitting access to the means forlinking and the multifaceted means through the means for supporting. 19.A method of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of a financialtransaction card, the method comprising: displaying a financialtransaction card including an account identifier linking the financialtransaction card to a financial account or record, the financialtransaction card including at least one of a translucent member and atransparent member embedded within a substrate, wherein the at least oneof the translucent member and the transparent member is configured toform multiple images of subjects viewed therethrough; and activating thefinancial transaction card to permit deductions from the financialaccount or record.
 20. The method of claim 19, further comprisingreceiving the financial transaction card as payment for goods orservices, at least a portion of a value of the goods or services beingdeducted from the financial account or the financial record.
 21. Themethod of claim 19, wherein displaying the financial transaction cardincludes displaying the financial transaction card coupled to a backersuch that the backer supports the financial transaction card while ondisplay, and wherein the account identifier and the at least one of thetranslucent and the transparent member are visible through an opening inthe backer.